Search

Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) in pregnancy is the most common form of thyroid dysfunction in pregnancy, which can affect fetal nervous system development and increase the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders after birth. However, the mechanism of the effect of maternal subclinical hypothyroidism on fetal brain development and behavioral phenotypes is still unclear and requires further study. In this study, we constructed a mouse model of maternal subclinical hypothyroidism by exposing dams to drinking water containing 50 ppm propylthiouracil (PTU) during pregnancy and found that its offspring were accompanied by severe cognitive deficits by behavioral testing. Mechanistically, gestational SCH resulted in the upregulation of protein expression and activity of HDAC1/2/3 in the hippocampus of the offspring. ChIP analysis revealed that H3K9ac on the neurogranin (Ng) promoter was reduced in the hippocampus of the offspring of SCH, with a significant reduction in Ng protein, leading to reduced expression levels of synaptic plasticity markers PSD95 (a membrane‐associated protein in the postsynaptic density) and SYN (synaptophysin, a specific marker for presynaptic terminals), and impaired synaptic plasticity. In addition, administration of MS‐275 (an HDAC1/2/3‐specific inhibitor) to SCH offspring alleviated impaired synaptic plasticity and cognitive dysfunction in offspring. Thus, our study suggests that maternal subclinical hypothyroidism may mediate offspring cognitive dysfunction through the HDAC1/2/3‐H3K9ac‐Ng pathway. Our study contributes to the understanding of the signaling mechanisms underlying maternal subclinical hypothyroidism‐mediated cognitive impairment in the offspring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The surrounding hydrogen bond (H‐bond) interaction around the active sites plays indispensable functions in enabling the organic electrode materials (OEMs) to fulfill their roles as ion reservoirs in aqueous zinc‐organic batteries (ZOBs). Despite important, there are still no works could fully shed its real effects light on. Herein, quinone‐based small molecules with a H‐bond evolution model has been rationally selected to disclose the regulation and equilibration of H‐bond interaction between OEMs, and OEM and the electrolyte. It has been found that only a suitable H‐bond interaction could make the OEMs fully liberate their potential performance. Accordingly, the 2,5‐diaminocyclohexa‐2,5‐diene‐1,4‐dione (DABQ) with elaborately designed H‐bond structure exhibits a capacity of 193.3 mAh g−1 at a record‐high mass loading of 66.2 mg cm−2 and 100 % capacity retention after 1500 cycles at 5 A g−1. In addition, the DABQ//Zn battery also possesses air‐rechargeable ability by utilizing the chemistry redox of proton. Our results put forward a specific pathway to precise utilization of H‐bond to liberate the performance of OEMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the effects of Lactobacillus plantarum (LP), cellulase (CE) and their mixture on the quality of alfalfa silage. In the experiment, LP and CE dosage were set at four levels, which were 0, 3, 5, 7 mg/kg for LP and 0, 25, 50, 75 mg/kg for CE, respectively. There were 16 treatments in total, and each treatment had three replicates. After 60 days of silage, the nutritional quality and fermentation index of alfalfa silage were measured, and the nutritional quality and fermentation index of alfalfa silage were comprehensively evaluated by membership function method. The results showed that the soluble carbohydrate (WSC) content of CE75 treatment was significantly higher than that of CE0 treatment (P<0.05). The content of acid detergent fiber (ADF) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) in alfalfa silage decreased with the increase of CE addition at different levels of LP addition (P<0.05). Under different levels of CE, the pH value of LP5 treatment was significantly lower than that of LP0 and LP7 treatment (P<0.05). The results of membership function value showed that the highest membership function value of LP5 + CE75 treatment group was 0.729. The study indicates that adding LP and CE to alfalfa silage has positive effects on fermentation quality and nutritional components, and adding 5 mg/kg LP and 75 mg/kg CE to alfalfa silage has the best effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Firstly, the Canny operator combined with circle fitting is used to position the working surface. Secondly, the median filter and the Laplacian operator are selected for preprocessing. Due to uneven illumination, surface texture, or environmental dust, the extracted scratches exhibit fragmentation, and traditional morphological operations cannot handle scratches well, so an improved Canny operator combined with probabilistic Hough transform is proposed for scratch connection. A bidirectional connection is introduced to optimize the edge detection process of the Canny operator, and a parallel algorithm is introduced to shorten the detection time. Finally, the standard Hough transform needs to traverse the entire parameter space, and the calculation is complicated, and the probability Hough transform is selected. The experimental results show that compared with the traditional Canny algorithm, the precision, recall, and F1‐score of the improved Canny algorithm are increased by 3.2%, 13.2%, and 6.0%, respectively. After adding parallel processing, the average detection time was reduced by 45 ms. Finally, the accuracy of scratches extracted using this algorithm reached 97.96%, the leak rate, and mistake rate of this study are only 3.33% and 2.00%, which provides a more accurate and efficient theoretical support for the research on brake disc scratch detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: More than 2 billion women are experiencing the menopausal transition in China, and some of these women have hypertension. Limited studies has focused on perimenopausal syndrome and hypertension in a specific population, so we aimed to investigate the prevalence of perimenopausal syndrome and hypertension and to analyse their relationships and risk factors in perimenopausal women in South China. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 3553 women aged 40 to 60 years from South China. We collected medical report, lifestyle, blood sample, general condition questionnaire, and modified Kupperman index (mKMI) data. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors for perimenopausal syndrome and hypertension during perimenopause. Results: The prevalence of hypertension in perimenopause patients was 16.58%, and the prevalence of perimenopausal syndrome was 9.9%. Compared with women without hypertension during perimenopause, women with HTN during perimenopause had an increased risk of perimenopausal syndrome (26.4% vs. 8.7%, P < 0.001). Lipid levels and urinary tract infections were risk factors for hypertension and perimenopausal syndrome, in addition to the presence of breast nodules, the intake of snacks at night, high-salt diets, red meat and sugar-sweetened beverages, and a history of smoking and drinking for perimenopausal syndrome and the presence of gestational hypertension and diabetes for hypertension. Conclusion: We concluded that perimenopausal syndrome and HTN are common in perimenopausal women in South China, and the associations between them are strong and positive. Perimenopausal syndrome shares some common risk factors with HTN during perimenopause, such as BMI and dyslipidaemia. Therefore, gynaecological endocrinologists in China should consider screening for perimenopausal syndrome in hypertensive perimenopausal women, and appropriate management of perimenopause is needed to alleviate these conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Presenting a universal carrier designed to address issues like inadequate solubility, limited targeting, and complex preparation processes for a variety of anticancer drugs. • The as-prepared SN38-GY-CCYRGD nanoparticles exhibit greatly improved solubility, targeting efficacy and enhanced anticancer effectiveness. • Pioneering an innovative delivery method, seamlessly integrating efficient and secure techniques into a unified carrier system, custom-designed for hydrophobic anticancer drugs. The current state of drug delivery systems allows for the resolution of specific issues like inadequate solubility, limited targeting capabilities, and complex preparation processes, requiring tailored designs for different drugs. Yet, the major challenge in clinical application lies in surmounting these obstacles with a universal carrier that is effective for a variety of anticancer drugs. Herein, with the help of computer simulation, we rationally design ultrashort peptides GY and CCYRGD, which can co-assemble with hydrophobic anticancer drugs into nanoparticles with enhanced solubility, targeting ability and anticancer efficacy. Taking 7-ethyl-10-hydroxy camptothecin (SN38) as a model anticancer drug, the co-assembled SN38-GY-CCYRGD nanoparticles significantly enhance the water solubility of SN38 by more than three orders of magnitude. The as-prepared nanoparticles can effectively kill cancer cells, e.g., human small cell lung cancer (A549) cells with a notable cell mortality rate of 71%. Mice experimental results demonstrate the nanoparticles' efficient targeting capability, marked reducing the toxicity to normal tissues while improving antitumor efficacy. This work presents a novel drug delivery method, integrating effective, targeted, and safe strategies into a comprehensive carrier system, designed for the administration of hydrophobic anticancer drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sleep is associated with cognitive function in older adults. In the current study, we examined this relationship from subjective and objective perspectives, and determined the robustness and dimensional specificity of the associations using a comprehensive modelling approach. Multiple dimensions of subjective (sleep quality and daytime sleepiness) and objective sleep (sleep stages, sleep parameters, sleep spindles, and slow oscillations), as well as subjectively reported and objectively measured cognitive function were collected from 55 older adults. Specification curve analysis was used to examine the robustness of correlations for the effects of sleep on cognitive function. Robust associations were found between sleep and objectively measured cognitive function, but not with subjective cognitive complaints. In addition, subjective sleep showed robust and consistent associations with global cognitive function, whereas objective sleep showed a more domain-specific association with episodic memory. Specifically, subjective sleep quality and daytime sleepiness correlated with global cognitive function, and objective sleep parameters correlated with episodic memory. Overall, associations between sleep and cognitive function in older adults depend on how they are measured and which specific dimensions of sleep and domains of cognitive function are considered. It highlights the importance of focusing on specific associations to ameliorate the detrimental effects of sleep disturbance on cognitive function in later life. • Robust associations were found between sleep and objective cognitive function, but not with subjective cognitive complaints. • Subjective sleep quality and daytime sleepiness showed robust associations with global cognitive function. • Objective sleep parameters showed a more domain-specific association with episodic memory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the CRISPR-Cas9 system to perform base substitutions at the target site is a typical technique for genome editing with the potential for applications in gene therapy and agricultural productivity. When the CRISPR-Cas9 system uses guide RNA to direct the Cas9 endonuclease to the target site, it may misdirect it to a potential off-target site, resulting in an unintended genome editing. Although several computational methods have been proposed to predict off-target effects, there is still room for improvement in the off-target effect prediction capability. In this paper, we present an effective approach called CRISPR-M with a new encoding scheme and a novel multi-view deep learning model to predict the sgRNA off-target effects for target sites containing indels and mismatches. CRISPR-M takes advantage of convolutional neural networks and bidirectional long short-term memory recurrent neural networks to construct a three-branch network towards multi-views. Compared with existing methods, CRISPR-M demonstrates significant performance advantages running on real-world datasets. Furthermore, experimental analysis of CRISPR-M under multiple metrics reveals its capability to extract features and validates its superiority on sgRNA off-target effect predictions. Author summary: Genome editing using the CRISPR-Cas9 system, particularly base substitutions directed by guide RNA, holds immense potential for applications in gene therapy and agricultural productivity. However, the risk of unintended off-target effects poses a challenge, as misdirection of the Cas9 endonuclease can lead to unintended genome alterations. While computational methods exist for predicting off-target effects, there remains a need for encoding methods with more representation space and deep learning models with generalization capability and the adaptability. This paper introduces CRISPR-M, an innovative approach addressing the limitations of existing methods in predicting off-target effects, especially for target sites with indels and mismatches. CRISPR-M employs a novel encoding scheme and a multi-view deep learning model, combining convolutional neural networks and bidirectional long short-term memory recurrent neural networks. The three-branch network structure enhances the prediction accuracy by considering multiple perspectives. Compared with previous representative methods, CRISPR-M exhibits remarkable performance advantages when applied to real-world datasets. The experimental evaluation of CRISPR-M, assessed by various metrics such as ROC, PRC, GC content and melting temperature, demonstrates its ability to extract meaningful features and establishes its superiority in predicting off-target effects of sgRNA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glioblastoma is a highly heterogeneous disease, with variations observed at both phenotypical and molecular levels. Personalized therapies would be facilitated by non-invasive in vivo approaches for characterizing this heterogeneity. In this study, we developed unsupervised joint machine learning between radiomic and genomic data, thereby identifying distinct glioblastoma subtypes. A retrospective cohort of 571 IDH-wildtype glioblastoma patients were included in the study, and pre-operative multi-parametric MRI scans and targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) data were collected. L21-norm minimization was used to select a subset of 12 radiomic features from the MRI scans, and 13 key driver genes from the five main signal pathways most affected in glioblastoma were selected from the genomic data. Subtypes were identified using a joint learning approach called Anchor-based Partial Multi-modal Clustering on both radiomic and genomic modalities. Kaplan–Meier analysis identified three distinct glioblastoma subtypes: high-risk, medium-risk, and low-risk, based on overall survival outcome (p < 0.05, log-rank test; Hazard Ratio = 1.64, 95% CI 1.17–2.31, Cox proportional hazard model on high-risk and low-risk subtypes). The three subtypes displayed different phenotypical and molecular characteristics in terms of imaging histogram, co-occurrence of genes, and correlation between the two modalities. Our findings demonstrate the synergistic value of integrated radiomic signatures and molecular characteristics for glioblastoma subtyping. Joint learning on both modalities can aid in better understanding the molecular basis of phenotypical signatures of glioblastoma, and provide insights into the biological underpinnings of tumor formation and progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glioblastoma is a highly heterogeneous disease, with variations observed at both phenotypical and molecular levels. Personalized therapies would be facilitated by non-invasive in vivo approaches for characterizing this heterogeneity. In this study, we developed unsupervised joint machine learning between radiomic and genomic data, thereby identifying distinct glioblastoma subtypes. A retrospective cohort of 571 IDH-wildtype glioblastoma patients were included in the study, and pre-operative multi-parametric MRI scans and targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) data were collected. L21-norm minimization was used to select a subset of 12 radiomic features from the MRI scans, and 13 key driver genes from the five main signal pathways most affected in glioblastoma were selected from the genomic data. Subtypes were identified using a joint learning approach called Anchor-based Partial Multi-modal Clustering on both radiomic and genomic modalities. Kaplan–Meier analysis identified three distinct glioblastoma subtypes: high-risk, medium-risk, and low-risk, based on overall survival outcome (p < 0.05, log-rank test; Hazard Ratio = 1.64, 95% CI 1.17–2.31, Cox proportional hazard model on high-risk and low-risk subtypes). The three subtypes displayed different phenotypical and molecular characteristics in terms of imaging histogram, co-occurrence of genes, and correlation between the two modalities. Our findings demonstrate the synergistic value of integrated radiomic signatures and molecular characteristics for glioblastoma subtyping. Joint learning on both modalities can aid in better understanding the molecular basis of phenotypical signatures of glioblastoma, and provide insights into the biological underpinnings of tumor formation and progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The supramolecular crystals, Mn(15-crown-5)(MnCl4)(DMF), (1; 15-crown-5 = 1,4,7,10,13-pentaoxacyclopentadecane), were synthesized via a self-assembly strategy under ambient conditions. Comprehensive characterization of the crystals involved microanalysis for C, H, and N elements, thermogravimetric (TG) analysis, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and single-crystal X-ray diffraction techniques. The results reveal that 1 undergoes a two-step thermotropic and isostructural phase transition at around 217 K and 351 K upon heating. All three phases belong to the same space group (P212121) with analogous cell parameters. These two phase transitions primarily involve the thermally activated ring rotational dynamics of the 15-crown-5 molecule, with only the transition at ca. 351 K being associated with a dielectric anomaly. 1 exhibits intense luminescence with a peak at ∼600 nm and a high quantum yield of 68%. The mechanisms underlying this intense luminescence are likely linked to low-symmetry ligand fields. Additionally, 1 displays phase transition-induced luminescence enhancement behavior, and the possible mechanism is further discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Appearing as a new class of functional organic materials, covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have aroused a huge wave of interest in versatile fields ever since they were first proposed in 2005. Thanks to but not limited to their ultralight weights, high surface areas, ordered channels, variable functional groups and well-defined crystal structures, the applications of COF-based biomaterials in the fields of drug loading and delivery, photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, bioimaging, etc. are comprehensively summarized and introduced. The existing challenges and future prospects for this emerging but hot research direction are also discussed. It is hoped that this review will serve as a guidance for future research on COFs as multifunctional bioplatforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fat has a high energy density, and excessive fatness has been recognized as a problem for egg production and the welfare of chickens. The identification of a genetic polymorphism controlling fat deposition would be helpful to select against excessive fatness in the laying hen. This study aimed to estimate genomic heritability and identify the genetic architecture of abdominal fat deposition in a population of chickens from a Dongxiang blue-shelled local breed crossbred with the White Leghorn. A genome-wide association study was conducted on abdominal fat percentage, egg production and body weights using a sample of 1534 hens genotyped with a 600 K Chicken Genotyping Array. The analysis yielded a heritability estimate of 0.19 ± 0.04 for abdominal fat percentage; 0.56 ± 0.04 for body weight at 72 weeks; 0.11 ± 0.03 for egg production; and 0.24 ± 0.04 for body weight gain. The genetic correlation of abdominal fat percentage with egg production between 60 and 72 weeks of age was −0.35 ± 0.18. This implies a potential trade-off between these two traits related to the allocation of resources. Strong positive genetic correlations were found between fat deposition and weight traits. A promising locus close to COL12A1 on chromosome 3, associated with abdominal fat percent, was found in the present study. Another region located around HTR2A on chromosome 1, where allele substitution was predicted to be associated with body weight gain, accounted for 2.9% of phenotypic variance. Another region located on chromosome 1, but close to SOX5, was associated with egg production. These results may be used to influence the balanced genetic selection for laying hens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pre-Cenozoic high-Mg andesites (HMAs) are mostly present in continental interiors, but their genetic relationship with continental lithosphere evolution remains unclear because of uncertainties of their mantle source, magmatic processes, and physicochemical conditions of formation. Early Cretaceous high-Mg dioritic rocks (HMDs, analogs of HMAs) of the Jinling complex in the Luxi area are typical intra-plate intrusions of the eastern North China Craton (NCC) and can be subdivided into two groups (Group-I and -II) on the basis of their petrographic and geochemical features. Group-I HMDs show low SiO2 contents (52.47–56.10 wt%) and Sr/Y (34.5–39.6) and (La/Yb)N (10.3–13.6) ratios but high contents of MgO (7.86–9.13 wt%), Y (18.3–20.3 ppm), Yb (1.43–1.47 ppm), and compatible elements (Cr = 407–585 ppm; Ni = 117–216 ppm), classifying as sanukitic rocks. Group-II HMDs are characterized by high SiO2 contents (63.81–64.87 wt%) and Sr/Y (47.1–63.4) and (La/Yb)N (16.1–17.5) ratios with low MgO (2.90–3.08 wt%), Y (0.88–1.04 ppm), Yb (0.88–1.04 ppm), and compatible elements (Cr = 201–213 ppm; Ni = 55–57 ppm) contents, belonging to adakitic rocks. Group-I and Group-II HMDs of the Jinling complex are closely related in spatial and temporal distribution, and all have enriched Sr-Nd isotopic compositions and arc-like trace element patterns with abundant hydrous minerals. Therefore, the Jinling HMDs should share a common source of ancient sub-continental lithospheric mantle that was metasomatized by aqueous fluids derived from the subducted Paleo-Pacific slab. The Jinling HMDs were not formed from interaction between slab-derived melts and mantle-wedge peridotites but were instead derived from partial melting of hydrous mantle peridotites in the continental interior of the eastern NCC. The distinctly different petrography, geochemistry, and mineralogy of the two groups of rocks resulted mainly from differing magmatic processes at crustal depths. Thus, Pre-Cenozoic intra-plate HMAs/HMDs are genetically distinct from Cenozoic HMAs that were mostly present in arc settings and generally represent juvenile crust growth. In a way, Archean tonalitic-trondhjemiticgranodioritic rocks (TTG) and sanukitoids, geochemically similar to HMAs/HMDs, could also be derived from interaction between slab-derived melts and mantle-wedge peridotites in arc settings or partial melting of hydrous mantle peridotites in continental interiors, and thus might not always be related with continental crustal growth and the onset of plate subduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An editorial is presented on evaluating the risks associated with mRNA drug and vaccine toxicity, emphasizing the transformative potential of mRNA technologies during the COVID-19 pandemic despite reported cases of toxicity, highlighting challenges in managing these risks due to widespread vaccine application. It discusses strategies such as improving delivery systems, adjusting dosages, and public education to enhance understanding and confidence in mRNA vaccines.

Crown ethers demonstrate significant conformational flexibility and rotational symmetry, rendering them invaluable in the realms of supramolecular chemistry and crystal engineering. These unique natures facilitate the construction of supramolecular crystals of crown ethers, characterized by disorder‐order phase transitions, imparts unique properties that hold promise for diverse applications across multiple fields. In this study, four supramolecular compounds, namely [Na(15‐crown‐5)]BF4 (1), [Na(18‐crown‐6)]BF4⋅H2O (2), [K(15‐crown‐5)]BF4 (3) and [K(18‐crown‐6)]BF4⋅H2O (4) were synthesized and characterized by microanalysis, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry and powder X‐ray diffraction techniques. Herein, 15‐crown‐5 and 18‐crown‐6 correspond to 1,4,7,10,13‐pentaoxacyclopentadecane and 1,4,7,10,13,16‐hexaoxacyclooctadecane, respectively. It was observed that the crystal structure, phase transition, and dielectric properties of these supramolecular compounds are significantly influenced by the size of the crown‐ether rings. The research extensively discussed the correlation between the coordination mode of metal ions of K+ or Na+ with crown ethers, the compatibility between metal ions and crown‐ether rings in terms of size, and the effects of crown‐ether disorder on dielectric permittivity during phase transitions. Our discoveries hold significant implications for the design and development of crown‐ether supramolecular functional materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a novel positive single-stranded RNA (+ ssRNA) virus named wheat yellow stripe associated virus (WYSAV) was identified in wheat plants in China. Molecular characterization revealed that the complete genome of WYSAV is divided into two segments, RNA1 and RNA2, which are 6,460 and 4,935 nucleotides (nt) in length, excluding their respective poly(A) tails. RNA1 contains one large opening reading frame (ORF), encoding a replication-associated protein. RNA2 contains six ORFs, encoding a coat protein (CP), a coat protein readthrough domain protein (CP-RTD), triple gene block protein 1 (TGB1), triple gene block protein 2 (TGB2), triple gene block protein 3 (TGB3), and a cysteine-rich protein (CRP). Phylogenetic analysis showed that WYSAV is related to members of the genus Benyvirus in the family Benyviridae. Thus, WYSAV is proposed to be a new member of the genus Benyvirus. Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the most important food crops and ranked third in the world in terms of production, only behind rice and maize [1]. During its growth cycle, wheat faces several biotic and abiotic stresses. Wheat soil-borne virus disease is an important disease that is difficult to control and causes severe yield loss in China each year [2]. The main pathogens causing wheat soil-borne virus disease are Chinese wheat mosaic virus (CWMV) and wheat yellow mosaic virus (WYMV), and their transmission vector is Polymyxa graminis [3–5]. Members of the viral family Benyviridae usually have two to five genomic RNA segments and are transmitted by root-infecting vectors belonging to the family "Plasmodiophoridae". Although few members of the family Benyviridae, of which beet necrotic yellow vein virus is the type member, have been identified [6], several recently identified viruses have been found to be phylogenetically related to benyviruses but are not classified as members of the family Benyviridae. These "unclassified benyviruses" include red clover RNA virus 1, Arceuthobium sichuanense virus 3, Dactylorhiza hatagirea beny-like virus, goji berry chlorosis virus [7], Guiyang benyvirus 1, Guiyang benyvirus 2, Mangifera indica latent virus [8], Rhizoctonia solani beny-like virus 1 [9], Sanya benyvirus 1 [10], and Sclerotium rolfsii beny-like virus 1 [11]. In this study, we identified a novel + ssRNA virus in symptomatic leaf samples collected from cultivated wheat in the city of Zhumadian, Henan Province, China. We propose to name this virus "wheat yellow stripe associated virus" (WYSAV), and we have deposited its full-length sequence in the GenBank database under the accession numbers OQ547804 (RNA1) and OQ547805 (RNA2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consider three electromagnetic scattering models, namely, electromagnetic scattering by an elastic body, by a chiral medium, and by a cylinder at oblique incidence. We are concerned with the corresponding inverse problems of determining the locations and shapes of the scatterers from phaseless far-field patterns. There are certain essential differences from the usual inverse electromagnetic scattering problems, and some fundamental conclusions need to be proved. First, we show that the phaseless far-field data are invariant under the translation of the scatterers and prove the reciprocity relations of the scattering data. Then, we justify the unique determination of the scatterers by utilizing the reference ball approach and the superpositions of a fixed point source and plane waves as the incident fields. The proofs are based on the reciprocity relations, Green's formulas, and the analyses of the wave fields in the reference ball. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gas and water migration through the hydrate-bearing sediment are characteristic features in marine gas hydrate reservoirs worldwide. However, there are few experimental investigations on the effect of water-gas flow on the gas hydrate reservoir. In this study, gas-water migration in gas hydrate stability zone (GHSZ) was investigated visually employing a high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) apparatus, and the formation of hydrate seal was experimentally investigated. Results revealed that normal flow of gas-water at the low flow rate of 1–0.25 mL/min will induce the hydrate reformation. Conversely, higher gas-water flow rates (at 2–0.5 and 4–1 mL/min) need higher reservoir pressure to induce the hydrate reformation. In addition, the hydrate reformation during the gas-water flow process produced the hydrate seal, which can withstand an over 9.0 MPa overpressure. This high overpressure provides the development condition for the underlying gas and/or water reservoir. A composite MRI image of the whole hydrate seal was obtained through the MRI. The pore difference between hydrate zone and coexistence zone produces a capillary sealing effect for hydrate seal. The hydrate saturation of hydrate seal was more than 51.6%, and the water saturation was more than 19.3%. However, the hydrate seal can be broken through when the overpressure exceeded the capillary pressure of the hydrate seal, which induced the sudden drop of reservoir pressure. This study provides a scientific explanation for the existence of high-pressure underlying gas below the hydrate layer and is significant for the safe exploitation of these common typical marine hydrate reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of pine needles on rumen fermentation parameters in vitro by gas production technique in vitro. Pine needles and corn silage were employed as fermentation substrates, the proportions of pine needles in the fermentation substrates (dry matter basis) were 0 (control group), 5% (group I), 10% (group II) and 15% (group IE). Rumen fermentation parameters were determined after being fermented for 48 h. The results showed that the pH value of the fermentation fluid showed no significant differences among all groups (P>0.05). The concentration of ammonia nitrogen and microbial protein in the group IE was significantly lower than that in other groups (P<0.05). The concentration of total volatile fatty acids, acetic acid and propionic acid in the group IE was significantly lower than that in other groups (P<0.05). The ratio of acetic acid to propionic acid ranged from 2.38~2.49. Gas production in the group IE was significantly lower than that in the control group (P<0.05). The dry matter degradation rate of the group El was significantly lower than that of other groups (P<0.05). The study indicates that the concentration of ammonia nitrogen, volatile fatty acids, gas production and dry matter degradation rate in the fermentation fluid are significantly reduced when pine needles is 15% of the fermentation substrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: An important stage in controlling gene expression is RNA alternative splicing (AS), and aberrant AS can trigger the development and spread of malignancies, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). A crucial component of AS is cleavage and polyadenylation-specific factor 4 (CPSF4), a component of the CPSF complex, but it is unclear how CPSF4-related AS molecules describe immune cell infiltration in the total tumor microenvironment (TME). Methods: Using RNA-sequencing data and clinical data from TCGA-LIHC from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, the AS genes with differential expression were found. The univariate Cox analysis, KM analysis, and Spearman analysis were used to identify the AS genes related to prognosis. Screening of key AS genes that are highly correlated with CPSF4. Key genes were screened using Cox regression analysis and stepwise regression analysis, and prognosis prediction models and the topography of TME cell infiltration were thoroughly analyzed. Results: A model consisting of seven AS genes (STMN1, CLSPN, MDK, RNFT2, PRR11, RNF157, GHR) was constructed that was aimed to predict prognostic condition. The outcomes of the HCC samples in the high-risk group were considerably worse than those in the lower risk group (p < 0.0001), and different risk patient groups were formed. According to the calibration curves and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) values for survival at 1, 2, and 3 years, the clinical nomogram performs well in predicting survival in HCC patients. These values were 0.76, 0.70, and 0.69, respectively. Moreover, prognostic signature was markedly related to immune infiltration and immune checkpoint genes expression. Conclusion: By shedding light on the function of CPSF4 and the seven AS genes in the formation and progression of HCC, this research analysis contributes to the development of more useful prognostic, diagnostic, and possibly therapeutic biomarkers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let ACG(2ν,Fq) $ACG(2\nu ,{{\mathbb{F}}}_{q})$ be the 2ν $2\nu $‐dimensional classical affine space with parameter e $e$ over a q $q$‐element finite field Fq ${{\mathbb{F}}}_{q}$, and Oν ${{\mathscr{O}}}_{\nu }$ be the set of all maximal totally isotropic flats in ACG(2ν,Fq) $ACG(2\nu ,{{\mathbb{F}}}_{q})$. In this paper, we discuss Cameron–Liebler sets in Oν ${{\mathscr{O}}}_{\nu }$, obtain several equivalent definitions and present some classification results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two international guidelines published on the management of Asherman syndrome (AS) have made recommendations on various adjuvant methods to prevent intrauterine reformation. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of these methods when used in primary or secondary prevention settings is different. Our aim is to assess the effectiveness of various adjuvant methods for the secondary prevention of intrauterine adhesions (IUAs). Articles were considered eligible if they included subjects with AS before surgery and compared a chosen method with either a control or a comparison group (using another method). The primary outcome was the IUA reformation rate at follow-up hysteroscopy. A total of 29 studies [15 randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and 14 cohort studies] were included. Adhesion reformation with various methods to prevented IUA reformation when compared with controls were: second-look hysteroscopy: [risk ratio (RR): 0.21, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.05–0.90 (p = 0.02)]; intrauterine contraceptive device: RR: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.36–1.12 (p = 0.12); continuous intrauterine balloon: RR: 0.18, 95% CI: 0.05–0.68 (p = 0.01); intermittent intrauterine balloon: RR: 0.50, 95% CI: 0.31–0.80 (p = 0.004); anti-adhesion gel: RR: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.58–1.10 (p = 0.17); amnion graft: RR: 0.63, 95% CI: 0.44–0.91 (p = 0.01). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of balloon therapy in obstetric practice especially in postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is well established and has recently been reviewed. However, little attention has been drawn regarding the use of intrauterine balloon (IUB) in gynaecological practice. This study focuses on the various usage of IUB in gynaecological practice. An electronic literature search through Medline, EMBASE and Clinicaltrial.gov from inception to August 2022 was conducted. The study focuses on the three following areas: (1) Indications: prevention and removal of intrauterine adhesions, management of ectopic pregnancy, facilitation of endoscopic surgery and other clinical usages; (2) Practical aspects of balloon therapy including ultrasound guidance, choice of balloon, inflation volume, duration of balloon therapy; and (3) Potential complications including pain, infection, uterine rupture and how they can be avoided. IUB therapy is a simple, inexpensive and effective method that can be applied in various gynaecological conditions ranging from IUA to intrauterine haemorrhage. Complications are rare, but in most cases can be avoided with correct use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on uncertainty theory, this paper proposed a vehicle scheduling method considering the dynamic departure interval and vehicle configuration of electric buses (EBs). An uncertain bi-level programming model (UBPM) is established, which takes the total cost of passenger travel (CP) as the upper and total cost of EBs (CB) as the lower. A chance constrained programming model (CCPM) based on the randomness of passenger waiting time and the uncertainty of interstation running time is proposed as the upper model. With a certain confidence level of service level as constraints, the goal is to minimize the total cost of passenger travel. Then, an expected value model (EVM) based on the fluctuation of energy consumption is proposed as the lower model. Taking the number of EBs as the constraint condition, the goal was to minimize the energy consumption of EBs. Finally, a practical bus route is taken as an example to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. The results demonstrated that the optimal scheduling plan considering the uncertain variables can reduce the passenger travel cost. Collaborative optimization of EBs vehicle configuration can reduce energy consumption, delay, and the number of EBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experimental realization of topological semimetals in the past decade has brought them to the new frontier of condensed matter research. In this paper, we study the angle dependence of the magnetoresistance and planar Hall effect of type-II Dirac semimetal PtTe2 microflakes. The magnetotransport properties of a PtTe2 device are characterized at various temperatures (T = 10–300 K) and different magnetic fields (H = 1–9 T). Remarkable anisotropic magnetoresistance and planar Hall resistance are observed, which can be ascribed to the anisotropic orbital magnetoresistance. Our work provides a comprehensive analysis on the transport properties of PtTe2 and paves the way for its application in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The relationship between vitamin D levels and cancer incidence and mortality in individuals with metabolic syndrome (MetS) remains poorly explored. Herein, we aimed to determine the association between 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations and the risk of 16 cancer incidence types and cancer/all-cause mortality in patients with MetS. Methods: We enrolled 97,621 participants with MetS at recruitment from the UK Biobank cohort. The exposure factor was baseline serum 25(OH)D concentrations. The associations were examined using Cox proportional hazards models, which were displayed as hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: Over a median follow-up period of 10.92 years for cancer incidence outcomes, 12,137 new cancer cases were recorded. We observed that 25(OH)D concentrations were inversely related to the risk of colon, lung, and kidney cancer, and HRs (95% CI) for 25(OH)D ≥ 75.0 vs. < 25.0 nmol/L were 0.67 (0.45–0.98), 0.64 (0.45–0.91), and 0.54 (0.31–0.95), respectively. The fully adjusted model revealed a null correlation between 25(OH)D and the incidence of stomach, rectum, liver, pancreas, breast, ovary, bladder, brain, multiple myeloma, leukemia, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, esophagus, and corpus uteri cancer. Over a median follow-up period of 12.72 years for mortality outcomes, 8286 fatalities (including 3210 cancer mortalities) were documented. An "L-shaped" nonlinear dose–response correlation was detected between 25(OH)D and cancer/all-cause mortality; the respective HRs (95% CI) were 0.75 (0.64–0.89) and 0.65 (0.58–0.72). Conclusion: These findings emphasize the importance of 25(OH)D in cancer prevention and longevity promotion among patients with MetS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the adaptive synchronization problem of quaternion-valued Cohen–Grossberg neural networks (QVCGNNs), with and without known parameters, is investigated. On the basis of constructing an appropriate Lyapunov function, and utilizing parameter identification theory and decomposition methods, two effective adaptive feedback schemes are proposed, to guarantee the realization of global synchronization of CGQVNNs. The control gain of the above schemes can be obtained using the Matlab LMI toolbox. The theoretical results presented in this work enrich the literature exploring the adaptive synchronization problem of quaternion-valued neural networks (QVNNs). Finally, the reliability of the theoretical schemes derived in this work is shown in two interesting numerical examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Large cell lung carcinoma (LCLC) is an exceptionally aggressive disease with a poor prognosis. At present, little is known about the molecular pathology of LCLC. Methods: Ultra-deep sequencing of cancer-related genes and exome sequencing were used to detect the LCLC mutational in 118 tumor-normal pairs. The cell function test was employed to confirm the potential carcinogenic mutation of PI3K pathway. Results: The mutation pattern is determined by the predominance of A > C mutations. Genes with a significant non-silent mutation frequency (FDR) < 0.05) include TP53 (47.5%), EGFR (13.6%) and PTEN (12.1%). Moreover, PI3K signaling (including EGFR, FGRG4, ITGA1, ITGA5, and ITGA2B) is the most mutated pathway, influencing 61.9% (73/118) of the LCLC samples. The cell function test confirmed that the potential carcinogenic mutation of PI3K pathway had a more malignant cell function phenotype. Multivariate analysis further revealed that patients with the PI3K signaling pathway mutations have a poor prognosis (P = 0.007). Conclusions: These results initially identified frequent mutation of PI3K signaling pathways in LCLC and indicate potential targets for the treatment of this fatal type of LCLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Miscarriage is a major concern in early pregnancy among women having conceived with assisted reproductive treatments. This study aimed to examine potential miscarriage‐related biophysical and biochemical markers at 6 weeks' gestation among women with confirmed clinical pregnancy following in vitro fertilization (IVF)/embryo transfer (ET) and evaluate the performance of a model combining maternal factors, biophysical and biochemical markers at 6 weeks' gestation in the prediction of first trimester miscarriage among singleton pregnancies following IVF/ET. Material and methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted in a teaching hospital between December 2017 and January 2020 including women who conceived through IVF/ET. Maternal mean arterial pressure, ultrasound markers including mean gestational sac diameter, fetal heart activity, crown rump length and mean uterine artery pulsatility index (mUTPI) and biochemical biomarkers including maternal serum soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase‐1 (sFlt‐1), placental growth factor (PlGF), kisspeptin and glycodelin‐A were measured at 6 weeks' gestation. Logistic regression analysis was carried out to determine significant predictors of miscarriage prior to 13 weeks' gestation and performance of screening was estimated by receiver‐operating characteristics curve analysis. Results: Among 169 included pregnancies, 145 (85.8%) pregnancies progressed to beyond 13 weeks' gestation and had live births whereas 24 (14.2%) pregnancies resulted in a miscarriage during the first trimester. In the miscarriage group, compared to the live birth group, maternal age, body mass index, and mean arterial pressure were significantly increased; mean gestational sac diameter, crown rump length, mUTPI, serum sFlt‐1, glycodelin‐A, and the rate of positive fetal heart activity were significantly decreased, while no significant differences were detected in PlGF and kisspeptin. Significant prediction for miscarriage before 13 weeks' gestation was provided by maternal age, fetal heart activity, mUTPI, and serum glycodelin‐A. The combination of maternal age, ultrasound (fetal heart activity and mUTPI), and biochemical (glycodelin‐A) markers achieved the highest area under the curve (AUC: 0.918, 95% CI 0.866–0.955), with estimated detection rates of 54.2% and 70.8% for miscarriage before 13 weeks' gestation, at fixed false positive rates of 5% and 10%, respectively. Conclusions: A combination of maternal age, fetal heart activity, mUTPI, and serum glycodelin‐A at 6 weeks' gestation could effectively identify IVF/ET pregnancies at risk of first trimester miscarriage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The functional group structures of coal molecules are one of the most important factors affecting spontaneous combustion. However, it is difficult to determine the exact effects of such structures. Extraction technology is able to modify the functional groups in coal as a means of inhibiting spontaneous combustion reactions. The present work extracted coal from the Caojiatan mine in northern Shaanxi, China, with various solvents. The extraction effectiveness of these solvents was found to decrease in the order of dioctyl sulfosuccinate (AOT) > water > n-hexane > cyclohexane + AOT + ethanol > cyclohexane > ethanol > methanol. With the exception of the AOT, the concentration of functional groups in the extracted coal was decreased compared with that in a control specimen extracted using only water. Ethanol, n-hexane, and methanol provided the optimal extraction efficiencies in terms of capturing coal molecules with aromatic structures, aliphatic structures, and oxygen-containing groups, respectively. The results of this work are expected to assist in future research concerning the extraction of coal molecules with specific functional groups. This work also suggests new approaches to the active prevention and control of spontaneous combustion during the mining, storage, and transportation of coal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two modified Calix[6]arene‐like polyoxometalates of the Keggin type with similar structures were synthesized under hydrothermal conditions by H3PMo12O40. H3PW12O40, 4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐3‐amine (3‐atrz) and copper ions were used as precursors, respectively, bridging organic ligand and transition metals. The result of single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and elemental analysis showed that the structural formulas of the two crystalline compounds were: [2(C6H12N12Cu3PW12O40)] (3‐atrz‐Cu‐PW12), and [2(C6H12N12Cu3PMo12O40)] ⋅ 0.5H2O (3‐atrz‐Cu‐PMo12). They were composed of two classic Keggin‐type polyoxometalate anions and six [Cu(C2H4N4)]+ coordination polymers similar to Calix[6]arene. The catalytic studies represented that the two heterogeneous catalysts catalyzed the oxidation of iodide ions in hydrogen peroxide. The catalytic reaction of 3‐atrz‐Cu‐PW12 only took 30 min and 15 s to complete the reaction. The rate of iodine generation was 6.86×10−7 mol L−1 s−1. The 3‐atrz‐Cu‐PMo12 catalytic reaction needed only 1 min and 51 s, in which the rate of iodine generation was 1.126×10−5 mol L−1 s−1. The catalytic reaction rate of 3‐atrz‐Cu‐PMo12 was 16.35 times higher than 3‐atrz‐Cu‐PW12. Both catalysts were reused nine times, and the conversion rate was still 99.96 %, showing excellent catalytic activity and repeatability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a clean and renewable energy source for sustainable development, hydrogen energy has gained a lot of attention from the general public and researchers. Hydrogen production by electrolysis of water is the most important approach to producing hydrogen, and it is also the main way to realize carbon neutrality. In this paper, the main technologies of hydrogen production by electrolysis of water are discussed in detail; their characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages are analyzed; and the selection criteria and design criteria of catalysts are presented. The catalysts used in various hydrogen production technologies and their characteristics are emphatically expounded, aiming at optimizing the existing catalyst system and developing new high-performance, high-stability, and low-cost catalysts. Finally, the problems and solutions in the practical design of catalysts are discussed and explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Defects play significant roles in spin-current-related physical processes in intrinsic ferromagnetic semiconductors (FMSs), which are great promise for spintronics applications. However, current defect calculation methods cannot be used to investigate charged defects in FMSs due to the spin polarization of both the charged defect states and ionized carriers, which is not well treated in current defect calculation methods. In order to solve this problem, we propose a spin-distinguishable charge correction (SDCC) method that uses spin-polarized band edge charge density instead of spin-unpolarized uniform background charge density as the compensating charge for charged defects. We apply our method to study the defect properties of CrI3 monolayer and find it can be doped n-type under the Cr-rich growth condition but difficult to be doped p-type. The SDCC method proposed here is generally suitable for all FMSs, which will be useful for the studies of defect properties of magnetic semiconductors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We conducted laboratory experiments and numerical simulations to investigate the formation and evolution of drops formed by partially miscible two-phase fluid, n-butanol (the continuous phase) and water (the dispersed phase), in a flow focusing microfluidic system. We carefully calibrated the numerical model to obtain good agreement with experimental data in drop velocity and mass transfer, demonstrating the model's capability to capture realistic drop dynamics. Our detailed investigation of the numerical results allowed us to determine the mechanism of drop formation and obtain a relevant criterion in terms of the disperse-to-continuous flow ratio beyond which the tubing patterns would occur. Additionally, we found that the mass transfer between the two phases, specifically at the drop interface, strongly depends on the local distribution of dissolved concentration of the dispersed phase. To enhance mass transfer, we conducted numerical simulations on alternating curved channels, which allows for the lateral advection of the dispersed phase concentration in the continuous phase at the curved section. We found that this lateral movement enhances mass transfer at the drop interface. Through detailed investigation of numerical results, we addressed mechanisms of mass transfer enhancement in the curved channel. Overall, our findings provide insight into the mechanisms of drop formation and mass transfer in partially miscible two-phase fluids in microfluidic systems, which could be useful in designing and optimizing such systems for various applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over 30 million people suffer from the consequences of ischemic stroke. The precise molecular mechanism of neuronal damage during ischemic stroke remains unclear; therefore, the effective treatment of post‐ischemic stroke remains a critical challenge. Recently, iron has emerged as a crucial factor in post‐reperfusion injuries, participating in cell peroxidation, excitotoxicity, and a distinctive cell death pathway, namely, ferroptosis. Since iron is tightly regulated in the brain and important for brain functions, the imbalance of its metabolism, including its overload and deficiency, has been shown to impact ischemic stroke outcomes. This review summarizes the current understanding of pathological events associated with iron in ischemic stroke and discusses relevant drug development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let h =∏i=1tp isi be its decomposition into a product of powers of distinct primes, and ℤh be the residue class ring modulo h. Let ℤhn be the n-dimensional row vector space over ℤh. A generalized Grassmann graph over ℤh, denoted by Gr(m,n, ℤh) (Gr for short), has all m-subspaces of ℤhn as its vertices, and two distinct vertices are adjacent if their intersection is of dimension > m − r, where 2 ≤ r ≤ m + 1 ≤ n. In this paper, we determine the clique number and geometric structures of maximum cliques of Gr. As a result, we obtain the Erdős–Ko–Rado theorem for ℤhn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In China, acupuncture has been widely used in treating cerebrovascular diseases since time immemorial. Scalp acupuncture using the long-stay method is a traditional acupuncture treatment. However, previous studies have concluded that the clinical efficacy of scalp acupuncture for the treatment of stroke remains uncertain. In addition, no randomized controlled trials have been conducted on scalp acupuncture using the long-stay method. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the long-stay method of scalp acupuncture for limb movement dysfunction in patients after acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Methods: Seventy-two patients with acute strokes were randomly divided into treatment and control groups. The control group received conventional acupuncture with a half-hour needle stay each time, whereas the treatment group underwent scalp needling using a long retention method, with each retention of needles lasting 24 hours. Both groups received acupuncture treatment for 2 weeks and were followed up for 6 months. Cerebrovascular reserve (CVR), breath-holding index (BHI), pulsatility index (PI), Fugl–Meyer, and Barthel index (BI) were assessed at baseline, week 1, week 2, and during follow-up. Results: Compared with the baseline, both groups showed a significant improvement in CVR, Fugl–Meyer, BI, PI, and BHI (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the treatment group showed more significant improvements in Fugl–Meyer scores, BI, CVR, PI, and BHI (P < 0.05). Correlation analysis showed that Fugl–Meyer and BI scores increased significantly with CVR recovery over the course of treatment. Conclusion: Scalp acupuncture with the long-stay method can improve neurological deficits and the ability to perform daily activities among AIS patients, which may be related to the improvement of CVR function in patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Although immune checkpoint inhibitor monotherapy has been used as a second-line treatment in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the improvement in progression-free survival (PFS) remains unsatisfactory. We investigated the feasibility of sintilimab plus chemotherapy as a second-line treatment in advanced NSCLC. Methods: This was a phase II, single-arm, prospective study in advanced NSCLC patients who had failed standard platinum-based chemotherapy (ChiCTR1900027634, Registered 22 November 2019). Eligible patients received docetaxel 75 mg/m2 (day 1) plus sintilimab 200 mg (day 3) Q3W. Those did not progress after 4–6 cycles received sintilimab 200 mg Q3W as maintenance treatment. The primary endpoint was PFS. Results: Forty patients were enrolled between October 2019 and October 2020. With a median follow-up of 12.2 months, the median PFS was 5.8 months, and the PFS rates at 6 and 12 months were 48% and 30%, respectively. The median overall survival (OS) was 12.6 months, with a 12-month OS rate of 62.0%. The overall response rate was 32.4%, and the disease control rate was 89.2%. The incidence of all and ≥ grade 3 treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) were 65% (26/40) and 17.5% (7/40), respectively. No TRAEs-related permanent treatment discontinuation or death occurred. bTMB reduction at 6 weeks was associated with a longer PFS (NR vs 3.0 months, P < 0.0001). Conclusion: This prospective phase II study in China suggested that sintilimab plus docetaxel might improve PFS and tumor response with good tolerability for Chinese patients with previously treated advanced NSCLC. bTMB reduction at 6 weeks could serve as a potential predictive biomarker for this regimen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polaritonic chemistry has become an important research field, since vibrational strong coupling (VSC) between molecular transitions and photonic structures was discovered to alter the energy landscape of molecules, through the creation of hybrid states in an optical cavity resonant to a molecular absorption band. ATP hydrolysis is an essential reaction in all known forms of life and have fundamental roles in energy conservation, active transport and pH homeostasis. Herein, using a Fabry‐Pérot (FP) cavity filled with the ATP hydrolysis solution, we measured the ATP hydrolysis efficiency in both strong and weak coupling modes and investigated the VSC effect on the catalytic activity of ATPase at the stretching vibration band of water. We observed an approximately 10‐fold increase of the apparent hydrolysis rate when coupling with the water stretching vibration. This work demonstrates the potential of employing VSC to precisely interfere water‐based biochemical reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The selection of appropriate grapevine trellis systems is of great importance for regulating vine vigor, forming grape yield, improving fruit quality, and labor-saving field management in the North China Plain. The effects of two trellis systems on the viticultural characteristics and fruit quality of three table grape cultivars: RuiduHongyu (RDHY), RuiduXiangyu (RDXY), and Red Globe (RG) were investigated. The two trellis systems were: (i) T trellis, with shoots positioned horizontally and downwards; and (ii) V trellis, with shoots positioned upright with an inclined angle. Headspace-solid-phase micro-extraction combined with gas chromatography mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) was used to determine the compositions and contents of the monoterpenes in the fruit. The results showed that for RDHY and RG, the T trellis showed better shoot growth consistency. The sugar–acid ratios of RDHY in 2019 and RDXY in 2021 under the T trellis were significantly higher than those under the V trellis. In 2020 and 2021, RDHY showed significantly higher total anthocyanin, flavonoid, and proanthocyanidin concentrations under the T trellis. The total monoterpene content in RDHY berries was significantly higher under the T trellis. The aromatic profiles of RDHY and RDXY grapes were similar and were mainly composed of citrus, other floral, other fruit, and rose aromatic characteristics. Among them, the main aromatic characteristics varied greatly among the different treatments. In conclusion, the Eurasian table grape cultivars with muscat flavor showed a more moderate and controllable vine vigor, consistent shoot growth, better fruit quality and taste, and greater accumulation of polyphenolic compounds and monoterpenes under the T trellis system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grain boundaries (GBs) in polycrystalline CuInSe2 are of both fundamental interest and technological significance for photovoltaic applications. However, the atomic composition and the exact roles of the GBs in CuInSe2 are still unclear despite a large off-stoichiometry around the GBs being reported. In this work, based on first-principles calculations and using ∑3(114) GB as an example, we show that the GB acts as a sink of defects, leading to defect segregations and off-stoichiometry. Furthermore, depending on the chemical potential conditions, different point defects dominate the different segregations. Under common experimental conditions with In rich and Cu poor, we find that the most dominant defect at the GBs is the antisite defect InCu. Our studies show that the existence of InCu can eliminate defect states in the bandgap and thus suppress recombination of photo-generated electron–hole pairs, making the GB electrically benign. To enhance the formation of InCu, we propose an optimal region of chemical potential to realize In segregation and Cu depletion at the GB. Our work thus provides useful insights and understandings for further improvement of CISe polycrystalline solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 18 kDa translocator protein (TSPO/PBR) is a multifunctional evolutionary highly conserved outer mitochondrial membrane protein. Decades of research has reported an obligatory role of TSPO/PBR in both mitochondrial cholesterol transport and, thus, steroid production. However, the strict dependency of steroidogenesis on TSPO/PBR has remained controversial. The aim of this study was to provide insight into the steroid profile in complete C57BL/6-Tspotm1GuWu(GuwiyangWurra)-knockout male mice (TSPO-KO) under basal conditions. The steroidome in the brain, adrenal glands, testes and plasma was measured by gas chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). We found that steroids present in wild-type (WT) mice were also detected in TSPO-KO mice, including pregnenolone (PREG), progestogens, mineralo-glucocorticosteroids and androgens. The concentrations of PREG and most metabolites were similar between genotypes, except a significant decrease in the levels of the 5α-reduced metabolites of progesterone (PROG) in adrenal glands and plasma and of the 5α-reduced metabolites of corticosterone (B) in plasma in TSPO-KO compared to WT animals, suggesting other regulatory functions for the TSPO/PBR. The expression levels of the voltage-dependent anion-selective channel (VDAC-1), CYP11A1 and 5α-reductase were not significantly different between both groups. Thus, the complete deletion of the tspo gene in male mice does not impair de novo steroidogenesis in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is concerned with the inverse scattering problem of time-harmonic acoustic waves from a penetrable cavity bounded by a layered structure and seeks to determine the shape and location of the cavity from interior near-field measurements. Of particular interest is that the near-field operator does not satisfy the main theorem of the factorization method, so we introduce a modified near-field operator and prove that it can be used to reconstruct the cavity. Numerical examples demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of our algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An abnormality in the regulation of adenosine deaminase acting on RNA (ADAR) enzymes, which catalyzed adenosine-to-inosine (A-to-I) RNA editing, was closely associated with the highly aggressive biologic behavior and poor prognosis in many malignancies. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the relationship among transcript factors-microRNAs regulatory network, immune environment, and ADAR gene in colorectal carcinoma (CRC). The association among the expression levels of ADAR mRNA and copy number variation, methylation, and mutation status were comprehensively analyzed using cBioPortal, Wanderer, and UALCAN databases in CRC datasets. ADAR-transcript factors (TFs) and ADAR-miRNA regulation networks were constructed by Cistrome Cancer and miRWalk2.0, respectively. The full network and subnetworks for ADAR coexpression genes were constructed using the STRING database and visualized by the MCODE module of the Cytoscape app. The relationship between ADAR mRNA expression and the abundance of infiltrating immune cells in CRC patients was explored by the Tumor Immune Estimation Resource, CIBERSORT, and single-gene gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). ADAR mRNA was elevated and was a cancer essential gene in CRC. ADAR mRNA and transcripts P110 were significantly elevated in CRC compared to normal controls. Low-level methylation in the promoter region and high copy number amplification of ADAR were responsible for high levels of ADAR mRNA expression. ADAR coexpression genes were mainly involved in immunoregulation, especially T-lymphocyte activation. Hub genes, including CD2, CD274, and FASLG, were also significantly upregulated in the ADAR-high group compared to the control group. Besides, M1 macrophages were enriched in the ADAR-high group compared to the control group. This study demonstrated that ADAR, a new essential gene, was involved in the immune regulator and was a novel immune treatment target in CRC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: By the technique of headspace solid‐phase microextraction/gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (SPME‐GC/MS) and static headspace/gas chromatography (HS/GC), the interaction of dual‐flavours and soy protein isolates (SPI) was determinated at low flavour concentration (0.04–0.16 mm) and high flavour concentration (0.4–1.6 mm). The results show that the mixture of ethyl caprylate and undecanal that has elongated structure possesses the same binding sites on SPI and shows competitive binding; the mixture of carvone that has compact structure, at low flavour concentration, possesses different and independent binding sites on SPI, and there maybe existed noncompetitive binding. If high concentration multi‐flavour binding with SPI induces the conformational change and increased more binding sites for another single flavour, there may be existed anticompetitive binding. 'Salt out' effects of interaction model were observed for terpene flavours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-entropy (HE) ceramics nanoparticles have received much attention due to their interesting properties. However, very limited studies have been conducted on their sintering. Here, we report the sintering behavior of HE A 2 B 2 O 7 type rare earth oxide nanoparticles obtained by polyol process. HE cerate (HECe) (La 0.2 Y 0.2 Nd 0.2 Sm 0.2 Gd 0.2) 2 Ce 2 O 7-δ is chosen as an exemplary case, which is considered as a good candidate for thermal insulation. HECe nanoparticles with size of 2.6–7.1 nm can be synthesized through polyol process followed by annealing in air at 300–700 °C. HECe nanoparticle compact can be densified by directly sintering at 1500 °C. The sintering temperature could be further decreased using a two-step sintering process, i.e., 1500 °C 5 min-1300 °C 5 h. Our results show that fine particle and abundant oxygen vacancies probably dominate the densification process. By controlling the sintering regime, we can tune the microstructure of HECe ceramics and thermal conductive properties accordingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct lightning poses a serious threat to the safety of power systems. In recent years, the lightning fractal model, which can reflect the fractal characteristics and randomness of lightning leaders, has been gradually applied to direct lightning protection for substations, transmission lines, etc. However, since few studies have linked simulations with experiments, the reliability of the lightning fractal model in terms of attachment probability prediction lacks experimental verification. In this paper, a series of attachment tests are carried out under a rod-rod gap. The equivalence between simulation tests and natural lightning is discussed, and the influencing factors of the attachment results are investigated. The attachment probability is simulated and compared to the test value under each test configuration. The test results show that the fractal dimension of discharge channel is consistent with the observation results of natural lightning. Under different configurations, the test value of attachment probability basically conforms to the simulation value. In general, the dispersion of the test results is slightly greater than the simulation results, but the average probability differences are all within 10%. The test results strongly indicate that the lightning fractal model is of good reliability in the prediction of strike probability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Engineered lignocellulose valorization enables the formation of superior energy and environmental materials which are developed to achieve the aim of sustainable carbon-neutral technologies. In this work, sequential manufacture under the trigger of hydrothermal fractionation is proposed for the "two-in-one" valorization of wheat straw into highly dispersed Fe, N-codoped carbon spheres (Fe–N–C) and Co nanoclusters anchored on biochar (Co–N–C) via using synchronous pyrolysis/activation. Taking advantage of the ordered ion-diffusion shortcut, suitable geometric/nanosized porous structure, ultrahigh surface area, well-developed packing architecture, and multiple redox possibilities (i.e., Fe species and N functional groups), the durable, conductive Fe–N–C microspheres can function as supercapacitor electrodes, exhibiting superior specific capacitance, rate-performance, and long-cycling lifespan. Benefitting from well-exposed Co nanoclusters and N coordination, the recyclable Co–N–C catalysts enabling efficient persulfate activation are conducive to expediting tetracycline removal with a working pH from 3 to 9, and a concomitant mechanism involving reactive oxygen species and interface electron shuttling is revealed via radical trapping, direct charge-transfer, and theoretical simulation. Hence this work provides multifaceted insights into a coupling strategy for lignocellulose conversion that involves matching the brand-new "biomass–energy–water" interplay with improved biorefining value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fetal origins of adult disease (FOAD) hypothesis holds that events during early development have a profound impact on one's risk for the development of future adult disease. Studies from humans and animals have demonstrated that many diseases can begin in childhood and are caused by a variety of early life traumas, including maternal malnutrition, maternal disease conditions, lifestyle changes, exposure to toxins/chemicals, improper medication during pregnancy, and so on. Recently, the roles of Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) in FOAD have been increasingly appreciated due to their wide variety of biological actions. PPARs are members of the nuclear hormone receptor subfamily, consisting of three distinct subtypes: PPARα, β/δ, and γ, highly expressed in the reproductive tissues. By controlling the maturation of the oocyte, ovulation, implantation of the embryo, development of the placenta, and male fertility, the PPARs play a crucial role in the transition from embryo to fetus in developing mammals. Exposure to adverse events in early life exerts a profound influence on the methylation pattern of PPARs in offspring organs, which can affect development and health throughout the life course, and even across generations. In this review, we summarize the latest research on PPARs in the area of FOAD, highlight the important role of PPARs in FOAD, and provide a potential strategy for early prevention of FOAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]